Happy Howl-o-ween!

Okay, let’s be honest. Although many dogs tolerate it and a small handful appear to even enjoy it, the overwhelming majority of dogs don’t particularly like the whole Halloween dress up thing.

Their people on the other hand seem the get quite a kick out of seeing their canine companions don costumes…even if only for as long as it takes to snap a photo to share with friends and family. And I’m certainly no exception.

Over the years, I’ve subjected my dogs to a wide variety of costumes, from cows and bumble bees to jesters and spiders to hard-hatted “workdogs” and even Snow White.

This year, however, members of my personal pack got a reprieve as I focused on some of the adorable adoptable dogs at the Washington Animal Rescue League. It seemed a logical way of promoting today’s special “Howl-o-ween” adoption event.

The dogs below may not have been as excited about the experience as I was, but if a few minutes of embarrassment helps them find their forever homes, I suspect they’ll forgive me.

Celebrate...and Save a Life

Spring. A time of birds, bees...and kittens galore! More kittens are born during the spring than at any other time of year. Unfortunately, many of these felines end up in shelters--with or without their mothers--potential victims of cat owners' failure to spay and neuter their pets.

No wonder June has been designated Adopt a Shelter Cat Month!

Faced with an influx of felines, some of the shelters in my area are celebrating in creative ways designed to help them care for and place as many cats and kittens as possible. For example, the:

Washington Animal Rescue League is holding a "Kitten Shower" on June 12 to collect food and supplies for kittens and to recruit kitten foster homes, and is waiving adoption fees throughout the month on cats 6 months and older;

Washington Humane Society is hosting a series of Meow Mixers to give prospective adopters a chance to meet and greet kitties looking for homes while enjoying refreshments; and

Prince George's Animal Management Group is offering a two-for-one adoption fee throughout the month.

Other organizations around the country are likely offering similar specials or holding similar events, so if you're looking to add a furry friend to your family, don't wait. It's time to celebrate cats!